How genes shape osteoarthritis risk and progression
Genetics of Osteoarthritis Susceptibility, Heterogeneity and Progression
Researchers are using genetic information from adults to find which DNA differences make some people more likely to develop or have worsening osteoarthritis.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Alabama at Birmingham NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Birmingham, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11175476 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
If I joined, researchers would compare genetic data from large groups of adults with and without osteoarthritis to find DNA regions linked to getting OA and to how it gets worse. They plan to fine-map known genetic spots and search for variants tied to specific joint sites (for example, hip versus knee), sex differences, and progression after joint replacement. The team will use data from the Million Veteran Program and other cohorts to include diverse populations and connect genetic findings with clinical outcomes and functional limitations after surgery. Laboratory follow-up and detailed analyses aim to show how those genetic differences might affect cartilage, inflammation, or recovery.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Adults with osteoarthritis or at increased risk — including people who have had or may require total joint replacement and who are willing to share genetic and health record information — would be the most relevant candidates.
Not a fit: People seeking immediate new treatments or rapid pain relief are unlikely to receive direct benefit from this genetics-focused research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could help predict who is at higher risk of severe OA and guide more personalized prevention or treatment plans.
How similar studies have performed: Large genetic studies have found many OA-linked regions already, but connecting genes to disease progression, joint-specific effects, and post-surgery outcomes is less explored and this project builds on prior GWAS progress.
Where this research is happening
Birmingham, United States
- University of Alabama at Birmingham — Birmingham, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Mcdonald Donnelly, Merry-Lynn Noelle — University of Alabama at Birmingham
- Study coordinator: Mcdonald Donnelly, Merry-Lynn Noelle
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.